Stoics & Epicureans: first impressions

Based solely on the readings I have done for this class, my first impression of "Stoics" and "Epicureans" would be related to nobility, virtue, happiness, and being able to find inner strength in regard to ambition, peace, wisdom, and awareness, while at the same time keeping a degree of modesty (like Socrates at trial). The image that comes to mind upon hearing these words is of Ancient Greece, and men with white hair dressed in white robes, standing in front of the Parthenon. These Stoics have achieved success in life, not by accumulating the most valuable material possessions, but by attaining the highest degree of spiritual, emotional, and intellectual awareness that places them on a platform above those with lesser values. Regardless of their status in society, this class never wavers from their convictions even while facing the possibility of death. That means standing behind what you believe, even when your beliefs are questioned and the consequences severe.

my personality type: ENFJ

The description of this personality type begins with calling it the "Teacher." Although I've never thought of that as my ideal career path, I can identify with the traits brought forward by this assumption. Sometimes when sitting in class, I find myself pondering other ways in which subject matter can be taught or discussed, perhaps more efficient ways than the teacher is demonstrating in front of me. I think I could be successful if I chose to become a teacher; I have a knack for being able to explain or put-into-words strange and abstract concepts that can be hard for others to explain. Just as my own personal opinion though, the benefits of teaching do not outweigh the downfalls, unfortunately (think of misbehaving adolescents, low salary, work without limits in order to create successful students). I do believe that providing education to our children is of the utmost importance, and may be something that I come back to some later day when my professional aspirations have been exhausted, but not now. Enough about teaching.

The description goes on to talk about how outgoing my personality type is, how I like to talk to people (everybody for that matter), and not afraid to speak out or make new friends. I think this is absolutely true, aside from the fact that everyone feels a little awkward in strange situations, it is easy for me to open up and talk to people I've never met before. A few beers can always help, too.

Regarding organization, scheduling, and commitments, I am on top of this! Currently I am juggling a full course schedule at UNCW, working part-time (had to cut my hours, actually) and raising a one-year-old. All of which take an amazing toll on the mind and body after a while. But I try to stay on top of homework and my fiance and I work together at home to take care of our son. I do wish I had more free time, but who doesn't? When I am finished with my Bachelor's Degree from UNCW, I will be relieved and hopefully be able to rest for a while before thinking about law school. Then it will all start over again!